Qutab Minar
Posted on Tuesday, June 25th, 2024
by Neha Sharma
Qutab Minar
The Qutab Minar, also known simply as Qutub Minar, is a towering structure located in Delhi, India, within the Qutb complex, an ancient historical site. Constructed between 1199 and 1220 AD, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a prominent tourist attraction in South Delhi. With 399 steps, it boasts intricate designs featuring inscriptions and geometric patterns reminiscent of the Minaret of Jam in Afghanistan. The monument is often illuminated in various colors for special occasions, such as celebrating Mexico’s Independence Day with the colors of the Mexican flag and Turkey’s Republic Day with the Turkish flag.
| Attribute | Information |
| Name | Qutub Minar |
| Location | Delhi, India |
| Built by | Qutb-ud-din Aibak (initiated) |
| Iltutmish (completed) |
| Construction | Begun in 1192 |
| Completed in 1368 (additional work) |
| Height | 72.5 meters (237.8 feet) |
| Diameter at base | 14.3 meters (47 feet) |
| Material | Red sandstone and marble |
| Purpose | Victory tower, commemorative |
| monument, minaret |
| UNESCO World Heritage Site | Designated in 1993 |
Historical of Qutub Minar Delhi
The Qutb Minar in Delhi, India, stands amidst the ancient remains of Lal Kot, originally known as Dhillika fortress. Construction commenced circa 1199 AD following the establishment of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, reflecting influences from the Ghurid dynasty. Named after either Qutb-ud-din Aibak or Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki, a revered Sufi saint, it is surrounded by historic structures within the Qutb complex. The Iron Pillar, bearing an ancient Sanskrit inscription, adds to its historical significance. Despite facing earthquake damage over the centuries, it underwent restoration efforts by Sikander Lodi & later Major Robert Smith of the British Indian Army in the 19th century. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, the Qutb Minar remains an iconic symbol of Delhi’s early Sultanate architecture.
Architectural Features and Design of the Qutb Minar
The Qutb Minar in Delhi showcases a blend of Islamic & South Asian architectural styles. Constructed by Muslim communities migrating from the Islamic West seeking refuge, it became a significant landmark & symbol of Islam in the region. Unlike traditional Middle Eastern mosques, it incorporates local Indic temple influences in its materials, techniques, & decorations. This minaret’s unique design, standing apart from the main mosque, reflects how local culture influenced Islamic architecture in India. Crafted by Hindu artisans & Muslim architects, it represents a harmonious fusion of Hindu & Islamic architectural traditions, evident in its inscriptions blending Quranic verses with Arabic phrases.
Cultural Significance
The Qutab Minar in New Delhi is an important monument in India, known for its early Indo-Islamic architecture. It was built in the late 12th century & combines Hindu & Islamic styles with beautiful carvings & writings. Originally, it was used to call people for prayer, marking the introduction of Muslim rule in India. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it welcomes millions of visitors yearly, showing its cultural and historical significance worldwide. Despite being centuries old, it has been well maintained and restored, emphasizing its importance as a historic landmark.
How to Reach Qutub Minar
- By Bus: You can catch several DTC buses that pass through the Qutub Minar area. Look for buses going towards Mehrauli or directly to Qutub Minar.
- By Flight: If you’re arriving by air, the closest airport to Qutub Minar is Delhi Airport. From there, you can take a taxi or use the Delhi Metro. Take the Airport Express Line to New Delhi station, then switch to the Yellow Line and get off at Qutub Minar station.
- By Train: If you prefer to travel by train, take the Delhi Metro Yellow Line directly to Qutub Minar station. It’s a convenient option for reaching the monument.
Qutub Minar Timing & Entry Fee
Entry Fee
INR 30 for Indians & INR 500 for foreigners
Timings
7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The best time to Visit Qutb Minar
The best time to visit Qutub Minar is from October to March when the weather in Delhi is nice and comfortable. It’s not too hot, so you can enjoy sightseeing comfortably. It’s better to avoid going in the summer (April to June) because it gets very hot, and during the monsoon season (July to September) because it rains a lot. It’s best to visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid big crowds and to have a more enjoyable time in pleasant weather.
Unknown Facts About the Qutub Minar
Here are some interesting facts about Qutub Minar:
- Mix of Styles: It combines Indo-Islamic architecture with Indian design.
- Recycled Materials: Built using materials from 27 demolished temples.
- Inscriptions: Features Quranic texts mixed with Arabic expressions.
- Iron Pillar: Nearby, a rust-resistant pillar dating back to the 4th century.
- Smith’s Addition: A cupola was added in the 19th century, later removed.
- Special Lighting: Lit in different colors for events and celebrations.
- Tilted Structure: Slightly leans but stabilized through repairs.
- Height Changes: Has varied due to earthquake repairs.
- Spiral Staircase: Unique with 379 steps.
- Astronomical Use: Possibly used for studying the stars.
Nearby Attractions in the Qutub Minar
Here are some nearby places to Qutub Minar in simple terms:
- Mehrauli Archaeological Park: A large park with over 100 ancient buildings like tombs, mosques, and step-wells, showing Delhi’s rich history. It’s 1.5 km from Qutub Minar.
- Alai Darwaza: This grand gateway leads to the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, built in 1311 with beautiful Islamic architecture and designs. It’s just 0.2 km away.
- Iron Pillar of Delhi: A famous 7-meter tall iron pillar in the Qutub complex, known for its rust-free structure and ancient inscriptions from the 4th century. It’s located 0.3 km from Qutub Minar.
- Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque: India’s first mosque after the Islamic conquest, built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak using materials from 27 Hindu and Jain temples. It’s situated 0.2 km from Qutub Minar.
- Humayun’s Tomb: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this beautiful garden tomb is where the Mughal Emperor Humayun rests. It’s 8.5 km away from Qutub Minar and inspired the Taj Mahal’s design.
- Lotus Temple: Known for its stunning flower-like architecture, this Bahá’í House of Worship welcomes people of all religions for meditation and prayer. It’s located 13 km from Qutub Minar.
Visitor Guidelines and Pro Tips
Here are some guidelines for visiting Qutub Minar :
- Opening Hours: Open every day from sunrise to sunset for visitors.
- Tickets: Buy your tickets at the entrance or online to avoid waiting in line.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking.
- Photography: Feel free to take photos, but be considerate of others around you.
- Keep it Clean: Help maintain cleanliness by using the provided trash bins and avoiding littering.
- Respect Safety Rules: Observe signs and avoid entering restricted areas for your safety and the preservation of the site.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry water with you, especially during hot weather.
- Respect the Monuments: Refrain from touching or causing any damage to the historical
Other Activities To Do in Delhi
In Delhi, there’s more to do beyond exploring historical sites like Qutub Minar. Discover busy markets like Chandni Chowk for shopping and delicious street food. Don’t miss places to visit in Delhi such as cultural landmarks like India Gate and Rajpath, which are stunning, especially in the evenings. Experience peace at the beautiful Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple, known for their serene architecture. Delhi also boasts museums like the National Museum and Crafts Museum, celebrating India’s diverse cultural heritage. Nature lovers can unwind at Delhi Zoo and Lodhi Gardens, peaceful green spots amid the bustling city.
Other Popular Attractions in India
Tourism in India is popular among travelers who seek diverse experiences, from the Himalayan mountains to Kerala. India is known for its rich cultural heritage & famous landmarks, such as the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s palaces, & Varanasi, which draws millions of visitors each year. These iconic places highlight India’s mix of ancient traditions & modern attractions. Additionally, the country’s lively festivals, delicious cuisine, & friendly hospitality make it a memorable destination for travelers worldwide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who built the famous iron pillar near Qutub Minar?
A: The famous iron pillar near Qutub Minar was built during the Gupta Empire, around the 4th to 5th century CE. It showcases ancient Indian metallurgical skills and is known for its ability to resist rust despite its age.
Q: When does Qutub Minar close?
A: Qutub Minar closes at 5:00 PM.
Q: Why is Qutub Minar well-known in Delhi?
A: Qutub Minar is famous in Delhi because it is a UNESCO World Heritage site & one of the tallest minarets globally. It’s admired for its impressive architecture, detailed carvings, & historical importance dating back to the Delhi Sultanate era.
Q: What is the history of Qutub Minar?
A: Qutub Minar was constructed in the early 13th century by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. Over time, it became a symbol of Islamic rule in India, initially serving as a victory tower and later as a minaret for the nearby Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque.